USC opens spring practice amid number controversies

New USC coach Steve Sarkisian ran his first spring practice Tuesday at a dizzying pace with the Trojans’ no-huddle offense going through 120 plays in 105 minutes.

But the fast practice was not the only difference.

There are two controversies going into next season regarding jersey numbers.

Freshman Toa Lobendahn out of La Habra High will wear No. 55 next season, which is significant because the number is traditionally worn by a promising or star linebacker. Past players who wore No. 55 included Junior Seau, Willie McGinest and Chris Claiborne.

“It was something that came up in conversation with the previous staff and it was the right thing to do,“ Sarkisian said. “Somebody has to wear some numbers.”

The move might prove unpopular when past players find out about it.

The other number under scrutiny is No. 5, which was worn by former tailback Reggie Bush. It was retired when Bush won the Heisman Trophy but technically could come out of retirement since Bush gave the trophy back.

Star recruit Adoree Jackson of Serra High School in Gardena wants to wear No. 5 and said Bush was his hero growing up.

“No, that’s not gonna happen,” Sarkisian said.

Center of attention

Junior Max Tuerk, who started at offensive guard last season, worked as the No. 1 center during practice.

It was not a surprise, but signaled the importance of center as Tuerk is the Trojans’ top lineman.

“If they need me to play center, I’ll play center,” Tuerk said.

One advantage for Tuerk is the Trojans will always use the shotgun formation.

“His arms were so long it was difficult to take snaps under center,” quarterback Cody Kessler said.

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QBs under scrutiny

It is highly debatable whether there is a quarterback competition because Kessler started every game last season. Redshirt freshman Max Browne is stronger and incoming freshman Jalen Greene more athletic but neither has college experience.

“I have to think with the playbook we’re on equal footing but it’s no secret (Kessler) led us to 10 wins last year,” Browne said.

The offense is still pro-style, but now it’s out of the shotgun and a no-huddle formation. Sarkisian also sends in the plays using hand signals similar to schools like Oregon and Arizona.

“It’s very similar plays but Sark’s got hand signals, is uptempo and all gun,” Browne said.

Farmer returns

Wide receiver George Farmer, who tore knee ligaments a year ago, participated in some of the practice and said his injured knee is 85 percent recovered.

``My knee feels strong but I’ve got six-or-so months until the season starts and I feel great,’’ Farmer said.

Injury report

Defensive tackle Leonard Williams, who underwent shoulder surgery, and cornerback Josh Shaw (stress fracture in foot) are not expected to practice this spring.

Recruit watch

Quarterback Malik Henry from Westlake High School in Westlake Village attended practice and was offered a scholarship. He is a member of the Class of 2016. Quarterback Ricky Town of St. Bonaventure in Ventura, who already committed to USC, also attended.

Incoming Damien Mama of St. John Bosco in Bellflower, Chris Brown from Loyola of Los Angeles and Jackson also watched practice.